I am confident that my diverse professional background will contribute meaningfully to any local or international organization focused on social development. My interests, skills, and passion are closely aligned with education, culture, and humanitarian aid. Having worked and lived in Uruguay, Colombia, the United States, Togo, and Cambodia, I bring a global perspective, adaptability, and dedication to making a difference in vulnerable communities.
I hold a Bachelor's degree in Visual Arts from the Universidad de la República in Montevideo, Uruguay. During my studies, I not only honed my technical skills but also developed a deep commitment to creating inclusive spaces for self-expression and cultural exchange. As an independent multifaceted artist, I have had the privilege of exhibiting my work across Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico, the United States, Italy, Togo, and Cambodia. In addition, my contributions to advertising campaigns, short films, and feature films have sharpened my visual storytelling skills and my ability to collaborate on creative projects.
As a Peace Corps Volunteer in Cambodia (2022-2024), I gained invaluable experience working with vulnerable populations in a post-conflict society still recovering from the Khmer Rouge Genocide. This experience shaped my professional approach to promoting social development through cultural, educational, and artistic initiatives. During my service, I developed skills in strategic thinking, mentoring, innovation, financial management, communication, planning, organization, teamwork, leadership, adaptability, and emotional intelligence.
Prior to this, my role as a Customer Experience Agent (2021-2022) in Uruguay allowed me to manage sensitive, high-stakes interactions, resolving complex issues, and improving customer satisfaction. My responsibilities in both English and Spanish included technical support and ensuring compliance with internal policies. This role enhanced my soft skills, particularly in conflict resolution and emotional intelligence, which are vital in both client-facing and leadership positions.
Additionally, during my time as a Consular Assistant at the U.S. Embassy in Lomé, Togo (2020-2021), I handled consular services, logistical coordination, and social media communications, even contributing to the 2020 U.S. Presidential Campaign efforts. This role deepened my understanding of international relations and strengthened my ability to engage diplomatically with diverse stakeholders.
My linguistic skills further support my international work. I am a native Spanish speaker, fluent in English, and have basic proficiency in French and Khmer. These language skills, combined with my cultural adaptability, enable me to work effectively with diverse teams and communities.
Throughout my career, I have consistently demonstrated leadership, creativity, and a drive for innovation. Whether working independently or within a team, I strive to exceed expectations and ensure the success of every project I am part of. My diverse background in visual arts, humanitarian aid, and communications positions me uniquely to contribute to a wide range of sectors, including creative industries and development organizations.
I am eager to bring my skills and experiences to a role where I can continue fostering positive change while advancing my professional development. I believe my passion for social development, combined with my multicultural experience and language proficiency, make me a strong candidate for positions that value innovation, collaboration, and inclusivity. I am committed to creating impactful, inclusive projects that promote global development and peace, regardless of race, gender, religion, or sexual orientation.
Sincerely,
Gabriel Grela Mesa.
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SHORT EXAMPLES
• Community Engagement and Participation: Involve the community in the planning, development and implementation of cultural, educational and artistic projects to ensure that projects respond to community needs and priorities.
Explore:
2024 - Baphnom, Cambodia - Repair of the school library roof.
2023-24 - Baphnom, Cambodia - Baphnom High School furniture.
2023 - Baphnom, Cambodia - Landmark Baphnom High School
2021- Lomé, Togo - Coaching marketing plan of Village d'artisans de Lomé
2020 - Lomé, Togo - Coaching professional development of a high school student
2018 - Montevideo, Uruguay - Children's Day - Art mural
• Accessible and Inclusive Programming: Design projects and initiatives that are accessible to individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those with disabilities, linguistic minorities, and marginalized groups.
Explore:
2024 - Baphnom, Cambodia - School bullying survey: Analysis and report.
2024 - Baphnom, Cambodia - Motivational class for 12th grade students.
2021 - Lomé, Togo - Auction and donation for the reconstruction of the VIVENDA school restrooms
• Cultural Competency Training: Understand the histories, traditions and perspectives of different cultural and ethnic groups to provide them with training and professional development opportunities that enhance their technical capabilities.
Explore:
2024 - Phnom Penh, Cambodia - Educational trip the Royal Palace & Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
2023 - Phnom Penh, Cambodia - Educational trip the Independence Memorial & National Museum of Art
2020 - Lomé, Togo - Coaching professional development of a high school student
2017, 2018 - Bogota, Colombia - Private classes, Art teacher
2016, 2017 - Bogota Colombia - NGO - Art teacher
• Representation and Diversity in Programming: Ensure that cultural, educational, and artistic programming reflects the diversity of the community, including the voices and experiences of underrepresented groups. Showcase artwork, performances, and educational materials that celebrate diverse cultures, languages, and identities.
Explore:
2024 - Baphnom, Cambodia - School bullying survey: Analysis and report.
2023 - Baphnom, Cambodia - Khemr & Art contest at Baphnom High School
2023 - Baphnom, Cambodia - High school students intern at Pagodas Vihear Thom and Wat Trea
2023 - Baphnom, Cambodia - Partnership with Room to Read - Workshop Art and sustainability
2023 - Baphnom, Cambodia - School Musical Concert
2023 - Phenom Penh, Cambodia - Trip to the Open House of the American University of Phenom Penh
• Creative Expression and Empowerment: To provide opportunities for people to express themselves creatively and share their stories through different artistic mediums as tools for empowerment and social change.
Explore:
2023 - Phnom Penh, Cambodia - Art exhibition at S'art Art Gallery
2023 - Baphnom, Cambodia - Graffiti workshop with elementary school students
2023 - Baphnom, Cambodia - Reflections on International Women's Day in the schools
• Collaborative Partnerships and Networks: Collaborate with other organizations, institutions, and agencies that share a commitment to equity and inclusion.
Explore:
2024 - Baphnom, Cambodia - University online program presentation in Baphnom library
2023 - Baphnom, Cambodia - Library paintings
2023 - Baphnom, Cambodia - Wat Trea Primary School Whiteboard Donation
2022 - Montevideo, Uruguay - Horacio Dura School - Mural Painting
2021 - Lomé, Togo - Espoir Vie-Togo NGO Decoration
2021 - Lomé, Togo - Auction and donation for the reconstruction of the VIVENDA school restrooms
2021- Lomé, Togo - Coaching marketing plan of Village d'artisans de Lomé
2019 - Lomé, Togo - U.S. Embassy, American Space, Lomé Kara Universities - Art and sustainability workshops.
2019 - Washington DC, United States of America - Cultural Dance Center - Hispanic Heritage Month
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